Guvnor
Let's both understand something from the get-go. I get paid well not because of what I "do". I make good money because years ago union folks fought for decent pay and working conditions. I have the good fortune to have inherited the spoils from their hard won battles. Sorry to disappoint you but I'm not about to return part of my check beacause of guilt pains. I'm no Red Robbo but it's my (and the other 11,500+) union affiliation that will leave this place better for my successors than even I found it! My company is making near record profits (and I hope they kick everyone elses' butt doing it!) but pilot salary's are small potatoes to other expenses in this industry. I have figures available and know exactly how much it costs my airline to get a pax from A to B.
They are not a charity and you and I wouldn't expect them to be.
I think you make a mistake comparing Europe to the US regards air travel or even general transportation for that matter. You "claim" that more bums on seats equals more money. Not necessarily true, otherwise why would American REMOVE rows of seats?
Here in the US there is such a huge market for the flying public that niche carriers (and I mean no offense) like Southwest or Spirit Airlines etc will always find plane loads of folks who don't mind paying for their type of service. Conversely, there are folks who want/expect a little bit more and they have their airlines of choice. (Please note as far as I'm concerned what we do up front is equitable no matter what symbol is painted on the tail !)
I appreciate your twisting the point of my previous post regarding "making it after 10 years". If you or anyone thought that after 6 or 7 years of crappy paying flying jobs I suddenly became Jesus in flying boots when I joined AA you're going to be disappointed.
The best flying I ever did was in ragged out freighters with multiple MEL items, VERY questionable weather radar and a couple of owners who'd lie to your face if they could screw you out of a dollar. Oh and if you got hurt in the process no problem - the POS aeroplane's insured ! Like all owners who are happy to take advantage of the fact that folks like me are/were building a career and use these experiences as stepping stones you don't see people, you see dollar or pound signs. The salary you offer HAS NOTHING to do with ability. You do it because you can get away with it!
All those who've been there/done that (and those that still are) - nod your heads.
In closing, you mention American and ALPA in the same breath. American has not been part of ALPA since 1963.
You also mentioned that "American got tough with its pilot group". Please explain this comment. I'll be happy to share the facts with you.
Cheers,dd.